Nestled at 907 key St in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is much more than simply a cafe. It’s a culinary knowledge that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with present day creative imagination, all established versus the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. should you’re a foods lover trying to find a novel eating spot, this place claims to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, stunning views, along with a vibe that’s equal pieces stylish and welcoming. Allow’s dive into what tends to make Saigon Babylon a must-take a look at vacation spot for locals and tourists alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.
visualize stepping out of your bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending towards the fifth floor of the Sonder 907 principal making. That’s where by Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was when the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your regular dining setup. The open up-air terrace provides sweeping sights of the town, a exceptional handle During this Component of city. whether or not you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails less than The celebs, the rooftop placing elevates every minute used in this article.
The space itself seems like a considerate blend of mother nature and layout. Lush greenery softens the trendy traces of the furniture, even though heat lights casts a cozy glow. encouraged by Vietnam’s rich aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a harmony between elegance and luxury. It’s the sort of location where you can gown up for just a date or keep it casual with here close friends, and In any event, you’ll experience proper at home.
What sets this place apart is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop venue. in a very neighborhood known for its eclectic Electricity, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s equally complex and laid-back. It’s no wonder persons are buzzing relating to this concealed gem.
The Minds guiding the Magic
within the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo using a confirmed track record while in the culinary globe. If their names sound familiar, it’s given that they’ve previously won more than foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar and The Eaves in nearby Somerville. Their abilities shines by means of in each element right here, with the menu on the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong provide a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired with a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving food stuff; they’re telling a Tale by means of flavors and presentation. It’s crystal clear they’ve poured their hearts into earning Saigon Babylon a standout, and their enthusiasm resonates with each individual visitor who walks through the doorway.
A Menu That Dances on Your Palate
The heart of Saigon Babylon lies in its food items, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, present day twists. This isn’t your normal pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen performs with textures, aromas, and tastes, offering dishes that experience common nevertheless thrillingly new. Allow’s check out a few of the stars on the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A Flavor Explosion
image this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed with the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled by using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s finished which has a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the correct contrast. This dish is a testomony into the kitchen’s capacity to just take a straightforward thought and turn it into a thing remarkable. Every Chunk bursts with freshness, rendering it a wonderful starter to awaken your hunger.
Xôi Chim - Comfort Meets creative imagination
when you’re craving a thing hearty, the Xôi Chim received’t disappoint. This dish can take sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese street food, even so the presentation seems like great dining. the heat with the rice, the richness of the meat, and the umami from your mushrooms occur collectively in a method that’s deeply enjoyable. It’s convenience meals that has a twist, and it’s simple to see why it’s a crowd most loved.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish finished appropriate
Duck fans, just take Notice. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck into the table, bathed in a very sauce that’s Daring and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen area’s skill in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers in the memory very long after the meal is over, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware of how to deal with meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss
For seafood enthusiasts, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a must-attempt. The shrimp are flawlessly charred, their organic sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equal parts tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it having a side of sticky rice, and you also’ve bought a plate that’s tough to place down.
Cocktails That Steal the present
No rooftop knowledge is comprehensive and not using a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that front also. The bar menu is a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that happen to be as inventive since the food items. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or perhaps aiming to sip some thing refreshing, there’s plenty to love listed here.
Take the Pho Cocktail, For illustration. Yes, you read that right. This drink takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Believe star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with new herbs and also a spirit of your alternative. It’s quirky, unanticipated, and remarkably delicious. If you prefer something a lot more tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, using an choice to spike it with rum to get a boozy kick.
The bar group clearly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each individual consume feels like a mini adventure, complementing the food stuff without the need of overshadowing it. in the event you’re not from the mood for Liquor, they’ve obtained non-alcoholic versions way too, making certain Everybody can Take part the entertaining.
When to go to
Saigon Babylon welcomes company from Wednesday to Sunday, with several hours operating from 5 PM to midnight. that offers you plenty of time to appreciate a leisurely supper or swing by for late-night drinks. The position shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so prepare appropriately. should you’re considering dropping in, it’s a smart idea to call in advance at (617) 945-4509. several hours can shift, and you also don’t would like to skip out.
The vibe right here shifts with regards to the day. Weeknights lean quieter, perfect for personal dinners or catching up with an acquaintance. arrive Friday or Saturday, however, the Electrical power ramps up. DJ sets frequently fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a energetic hotspot. It’s the kind of versatility that makes Saigon Babylon appeal to all types of diners.
What People Are stating
due to the fact opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has been producing waves in Cambridge’s food items scene. friends rave about the rooftop views, contacting them a uncommon take care of With this bustling community. The food stuff earns superior marks way too, with lots of praising the creativity and freshness of each and every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up frequently in testimonials, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s expertise.
Having said that, it’s not all best. Some diners mention that the costs lean on the upper side, Specifically offered the part dimensions. some have pointed out that services can sense uneven occasionally, probably a hiccup through the restaurant’s newness. continue to, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. on the internet rankings hover around four.3 to four.four outside of 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust start off for a location that’s continue to getting its footing.
Making a Reservation
prepared to practical experience Saigon Babylon on your own? reserving a table can be a breeze. You can hop onto their Formal Web-site at saigonbabylon.entertaining or use Resy.com to protected your spot. specified the rooftop’s level of popularity, Specially on weekends, it’s good to plan in advance. stroll-ins are welcome when space allows, but a reservation makes sure you won’t be remaining ready.
this is the location that works for all kinds of events. Planning a passionate evening? The ambiance and foods established the perfect tone. Assembly mates for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes retain points lively. It’s even a fantastic choose for any Unique celebration, thanks to the standout location and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge isn't any stranger to superior meals, but Saigon Babylon provides something fresh for the desk. It’s not just about having; it’s about immersing on your own in a very sensory journey. The rooftop location by yourself causes it to be a rarity, offering a perspective of town you gained’t obtain wherever else in Central Square. increase during the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, therefore you’ve acquired a recipe for a unforgettable night time.
The attention to depth shines by way of in every single element. within the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef for the intelligent twist of a Pho Cocktail, this place doesn’t cut corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern audience. no matter if you’re a local searching for a new haunt or perhaps a visitor Checking out the realm, Saigon Babylon seems like a discovery worth sharing.
techniques for Your pay a visit to
for those who’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a few tips can improve your experience. purpose for an early evening slot if you wish to capture the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable because the sky shifts hues. Dress in levels, way too. The out of doors location is actually a attract, but Massachusetts climate may be unpredictable, even in spring or tumble.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not a big drinker. The non-alcoholic options are only as Inventive and pair beautifully Along with the foodstuff. and when you’re torn on what to purchase, ask the workers for tips. They’re keen about the menu and joyful to guideline you towards some thing you’ll really like.
A Taste of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t only a cafe; it’s a place. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - bold, well balanced, and stuffed with daily life - and wraps it inside of a location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the inventive dishes, the welcoming atmosphere - everything will come collectively to generate one thing Unique.
Next time you’re in Central sq., skip the standard suspects and head around 907 primary St. whether or not you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting which has a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up from the charm of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers within your head, beckoning you back again for one more flavor of its magic.